Calls for new govt body to keep tabs on suppliers' economic kudos

Review into new Federal Government procurement rules recommends greater oversight.

Further, the new rules mean that the regulatory framework involving labour regulations, including ethical employment practices, occupational health and safety, and environmental impacts must be considered in any procurement.

According to South Australian Senator, Nick Xenophon, who struck a deal late on 29 November with the Coalition government to pass the new rules, the move represents "the most significant changes to the way the Australian government purchases goods and services that this country has ever seen".